Whether you are a casual hiker or a true Indiana Jones of the trails, good equipment makes all the difference between a memorable adventure and a nameless ordeal. No one wants to end up soaked in a downpour or with blisters after 5 km! To avoid unpleasant surprises and fully enjoy your outing in nature, here’s everything you need to know to equip yourself well before heading out to tackle the trails. From choosing clothing, a backpack, and essential accessories, here’s all you need to know to set off well prepared.


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Hiking clothing: comfort and protection above all

Choosing the right clothing for hiking is crucial to ensure your comfort and safety. The three-layer rule is a good principle to follow, especially in autumn or winter:
  1. A breathable layer (synthetic or merino wool t-shirt) to wick away sweat.
  2. An insulating layer (fleece or lightweight down jacket) to retain heat.
  3. A waterproof and windproof jacket to protect against the elements.
The lower body should not be neglected: a hiking pant that is flexible and water-repellent is preferable to jeans, which are heavy and uncomfortable when wet. In summer, a hiking short can be a good option. Don’t forget a cap or beanie, as well as gloves if you are heading to high altitudes or hiking in winter.


Footwear: the key element for good hiking

A good pair of hiking shoes is essential to avoid blisters and ensure good grip on the trails. For easy walks, low shoes may suffice, but for rugged terrain or in the mountains, high shoes offering good ankle support are recommended. Also, consider wearing technical merino wool socks that reduce friction and wick away moisture.

To learn more, read the blog article on: How to choose the right pair of hiking shoes?


The backpack: choosing the right capacity

A good backpack is the foundation of any hike. Its capacity should be suited to the duration of your outing. Discover all our hiking backpacks available on AlpinStore.

The backpack should be adapted to the duration of your hike:

  • 10 to 30L for a day hike.
  • 30 to 50L for an overnight hike in a shelter.
  • 50L and more for a self-sufficient trek.

Make sure it has comfortable straps, a waist belt to better distribute the weight, and practical pockets to store small accessories. To learn more, we invite you to read: how to choose your hiking backpack well?

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Essential hiking accessories

To set off safely and comfortably, here are some essential accessories:

- Hiking poles: useful for relieving joints and improving balance.

- Water bottle or hydration bladder: Hydration is crucial while hiking. It is recommended to carry at least 1.5L of water per person, or more in case of high heat. A filtering water bottle (like LifeStraw or Katadyn) can be useful if you need to source water along the way.

- In terms of food, energy snacks like granola bars, dried fruits, or chocolate help maintain energy throughout the hike. For long hikes, plan a light but nourishing meal, such as a sandwich or freeze-dried meal.

- Headlamp: essential if you set off early in the morning or risk returning late.

- IGN map and compass or GPS: even on marked trails, it is important to have navigation tools. An IGN map and a compass are classics, but a smartphone with a hiking app (Visorando, Komoot) can also be useful, provided you have an external battery to avoid running out of power.

- Multi-tool knife: handy for all situations.

- First aid kit: band-aids, disinfectant, tick tweezers, etc., to manage minor injuries.

- Sunscreen and sunglasses: especially in the mountains, where UV rays are more intense.

- Emergency blanket: a lightweight item that can be vital in case of unforeseen events.

- Whistle

in case of emergency, many hiking backpacks have one integrated.

BONUS: for more comfort

For those who like to combine hiking and comfort, a ultra-light folding chair Helinox, an inflatable pillow, or a compact Jetboil stove for a hot meal in nature can be good investments.

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Equipping yourself well for hiking is primarily about ensuring a pleasant and safe experience. Depending on the terrain and weather, adapt your gear and set off with peace of mind to discover the most beautiful trails!


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